Suspects linked to Rakgoadi taxi feud appears in court
Rakgoadi
Nine accused, who were arrested in connection with a taxi violence that erupted in Rakgoadi area outside Marble Hall, have appeared before the Motetema Periodical Court on Monday 27 May 2024.
The suspects, Irvin Motaung (44), Jim Marota (32), Branden Ditsepu (27), Collen Masemola (33), Khomotso Manaswe (38), Elias Mashego (28), Mbuyiseni Nkosi (28), Paris Mokalapa (31) and Collen Mphethi (42), are facing charges of public violence, malicious damage to property, and assault GBH.
They were arrest following violent incidents that took place on 13 May 2024 at Rakgoadi Taxi Rank in Makgatle, Rakgoadi Police Station and Makgatle Sport Ground wherein a number of vehicles were damaged between 09:30 and 15:00.
Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, Limpopo Provincial Police Spokesperson, said reports revealed that the accused targeted the Tsimanyane Taxi Rank in Makgatle Village, where they vandalized the wheel tires of a Toyota Quantum and a taxi patrol vehicle.
“Subsequently, they moved to the Rakgoadi Taxi Rank, where they damaged tires of a taxis, smashed and broke the windscreen of a parked van and caused extensive damage to a blue patrol vehicle, while assaulting the driver,” explained Ledwaba.
He said the accused then proceeded to Rakgoadi Police Station where they vandalized the windscreens of two Toyota Quantum minibus taxis that were parked at the gate.
“Following the violent incidents, the suspects went to the Makgatle Sport Ground, where they inflicted damage on another patrol vehicle and overturned it. The police swiftly responded to the incidents, registering cases and launching a comprehensive search operation. Through dedicated investigative efforts, a team of officers managed to apprehend all nine involved,” said Ledwaba.
Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner, commended the prompt action taken by the police members for arresting the suspects.
She further condemned the incident and encouraged taxi associations to avoid engaging in violence when facing challenges.
“Acts of public violence, malicious damage to property, and assault are grave offenses and will not be condoned in our communities. We urge the taxi associations to collaborate with the police in preventing and combating such criminal behaviours,” Hadebe said.
